Celebrating IPS Success

January 5, 2026

The Dismas House Individual Placement & Support (IPS) Steering Committee Meeting met in December and began by transforming the dining room into a beautifully decorated meeting area reflecting the spirit of the season. Guests were welcomed with an array of delicious breakfast options in an inviting and comfortable atmosphere. Our Chief Program Officer, Kim Demetrio, joined IPS Manager Grayce Gadson and CEO Steven Murff to provide highlights of what amassed into a great year for the IPS team. Our IPS specialists build relationships with employers to learn about the employers’ needs to identify qualified job candidates, and a few of those employers and IPS members were in attendance. One of Nashville’s major employers was represented by Josef Czelusta, a Director of Environmental Services at TouchPoint who spoke briefly about its commitment to its employees at area Ascension St. Thomas health facilities.

Additional reflections and group activities were shared and led by our IPS Employment Specialists Shanethia, Teferi, and Dr. Rochelle. Three guest speakers then went on to talk about why they chose the path of the Individual Placement and Support program, how they got to where they are today and what they love about their work. 

Through IPS, job supports are individualized based on the needs and goals of the person and what will promote a positive work experience. So, when two members offered their own moving personal testimonies, it brought the mission of IPS to life. Their transformational stories demonstrated the impact of ongoing, individualized employment support. CEO Steven Murff then closed the meeting with final remarks. We’d like to thank everyone in attendance for contributing to such a meaningful and engaging gathering.